Job Description

Mid-Hudson Young Environmental Scientists Program Specialist

Salary Transparency statement: This is a temporary, hourly, non-exempt, non-benefited position. $30/hr.

Temporary in Millbrook NY

Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies is accepting applications for one seasonal position entailing 4 weeks of instruction (37 hours/week) in the Mid-Hudson Young Environmental Scientists program starting July 1 and ending July 29. Part time preparation work and program follow up will be flexibly scheduled before (April 1 - July 1) and after (July 29 - August 5) the program. The Program Specialist will work closely with the Education Program Leader to teach and mentor students in the 2026 MH-YES cohort.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead all program activities for students and participants during the intensive 3 week program (July 6-July 24).
  • Teach established curriculum for the three week program
  • Help maintain a healthy and safe environment for all participants.
  • Facilitate clear communication and understanding among scientists, educators, and students.
  • Support all participants in the program, providing one-on-one counseling and guidance as needed.
  • Monitor students' data collection and accurate recording.
  • Cultivate positive relationships among students.
  • Work collaboratively with students, undergraduates, scientists, and Cary educators.
  • Advise students in preparing their final project, especially with regard to effective communication and product design (e.g., a scientific poster, slide presentation, etc.).
  • Encourage and motivate students, as well as create a welcoming and inclusive environment for what may be their very first field experience.

• Make final preparations for the MH-YES program in collaboration with the Program Leader.
• Support evaluation and documentation of the program.
• Work with Cary staff to review curriculum and prepare for the program (April - July)

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum two years experience working with high school age youth in either formal or informal settings
• Bachelor's degree
• Ability to communicate with a wide range of audiences
• Ability to mentor and serve as a positive role model for high school and undergraduate students in field environmental science research about watershed ecology
• Demonstrated ability and desire to collaborate effectively in a team setting
• Willingness to work outdoors the majority of the three-week program
• Ability to provide own transportation (onsite shared housing for a reasonable fee may be available)
• Finalist candidates must complete a background check.

Preferred Qualification:

• Experience in conducting scientific research with students
• Field research experience from college, internships, or jobs
• Course background in both ecology or a related field, and in education (Master's degree preferred).
• Experience teaching students with diverse backgrounds
• Interest in aquatic and terrestrial components of a watershed (e.g., water quality, hydrology, soil microbial ecology, soil chemistry, etc.)
• Spanish language skills: Proficiency (conversational) or Fluency

Working Conditions

Work Environment: This position requires work across settings, including classrooms, laboratories, field sites (aquatic and terrestrial) and transporting students in Cary vehicles in July. 

Hours and Schedule: Part time, up to 20 hours between April 1 – June 30. Full time short term (3 weeks). July 1 – July 24, Part time up to 10 hours July 25 - August 5.

Travel Requirements: Some local travel within Dutchess County can be expected to access field research sites and enrichment activities for students

Physical Demands: Position requires ability to hike on uneven terrain to and from field locations and perform sampling in streams and ponds. Position requires lifting and carrying up to 40 lbs.

Safety and Hazards: Position includes field work outdoors in July in Dutchess County, NY. Outdoor work in hot weather is to be expected.

Closing Date: Position is open until filled.

To Apply: Please include a resume, cover letter and full contact information for three professional references in one document as part of your application.

The Cary Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of the Institute to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, familial status, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

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